Law passes allowing all NSW businesses to open on Boxing Day

Legislation was passed overnight allowing NSW businesses to open on Boxing Day if they choose.

The changes were triggered by an outcry from western Sydney retailers and regional residents who wanted the same shopping options as people who live in the city and the eastern suburbs.

The state government hopes the change in legislation will mean local retailers can benefit from the traditionally huge day of trade.

Employees affected in those areas will not be forced to work if they don’t want to, however retail employee unions fear this will not be the case.

Boxing Day was previously a restricted shop trading day in NSW which meant that only exempt stores or those within certain local government areas or the Sydney Trading Precinct were allowed to operate.